Fact File: Jordan

LOCAL TIME
October – March: Greenwich Mean Time plus 2 hours (G.M.T. + 2)

April – September: Greenwich Mean Time plus 3 hours (G.M.T. + 3)

CURRENCY
The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar, symbol JD, which is often called the “jaydee”. There are 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 JD notes. The dinar is divided onto 100 piasters (pronounced “pee-aster”) of 1000 fils (“fills”). The fils is the unit most commonly used and you will usually see prices written as 4,750 (which is 4 JD and 750 fils).

Currency can be exchanged at major banks, exchange booths and at most hotels. Street money-changers are best avoided. Exchange rates are set daily by the Jordanian Central Bank.

POPULATION
The population of Jordan has grown rapidly over the last fifty years or so to more than 5 million people. Around 80% of the population live in urban areas, with approximately 2 million living in the capital, Amman.

LANGUAGE
The official language of Jordan is Arabic, but English is widely spoken – especially in the cities. Many Jordanians have travelled or have been educated abroad so French, German, Italian and Spanish are also spoken, but to a lesser extent.

When Arabic is written in Jordan using the Latin alphabet, English spelling is applied however these spellings can be interpreted in various ways, the spelling for example of street addresses can vary widely. For this reason, the sounds of the words is a much better guide than the spelling.

Speaking Arabic is easier than you might think and attempting a few basic words will gain you respect from the locals and is a good way to break the ice. The Jordanian people are extremely understanding and will help you whenever they are able.

WATER
Water is a precious resource in Jordan and visitors are encouraged not to waste it. Hotels rated 3 stars and above have their own water filtering systems and their water is considered safe to drink. Elsewhere, bottled water is cheap and readily available.

MEDIAL CARE

Medical services are excellent in the larger cities and towns and most doctors are bilingual in Arabic and English. Larger hotels have a doctor on call and embassies can also suggest doctors and hospitals.

CLOTHING
Jordan is primarily a Muslim country, although the freedom of all religions is protected. Muslim women’s clothing often covers their arms, legs and hair. Western women are not subject to these customs, but very revealing clothing is never appropriate and conservative dress is advisable for both men and women in the old part of Amman (Downtown), and outside the cities. Shorts are rarely worn by either sex, and would be out of place in the downtown Amman area. Topless sunbathing is prohibited and one-piece swimsuits are preferred, although two-piece swimsuits are acceptable at hotel pools.

CREDIT CARDS
Credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants and larger shops, including American Express, Visa, Diners Club, and MasterCard. Please note that many smaller shops still prefer cash payment in the Jordanian currency, and it’s essential for shopping in the local souks.

VISAS
Visitors with a valid passport may obtain a visa at any Jordanian embassy, consulate, or legation abroad. A visa can also be obtained at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport or at any other border crossing except King Hussein Bridge and the ferryboat from Egypt. Visas are valid for 2 weeks, but can be extended at any police station. No inoculations are required for entry into Jordan, although preventive shots for hepatitis, polio, tetanus and typhoid are recommended.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

King Abdullah II’s Birthday - 30th January

Labour Day - 1st May

The late King Hussein’s Birthday - 14th November
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